The Bar.

Everyone has an opinion on my love life.  And as much as I hate it, I also appreciate that so many people care about me and my happiness.  But I get a lot of commentary that needs to be drowned out, mostly, because very few people actually know me truly well enough to have a valid opinion.

Many of these comments have to do with my expectations, and that I’ve set the bar too high.  Every time I hear one of these comments, it really bothers me.  Even when said in a joking manner, it bums me out. 😔 

I am so fortunate to have incredible men in my life.  From my dad, to my grandpas, to each of my uncles, and to our lifelong family friend who is the closest thing I have to a brother.  Not to mention, my brother-in-law and several guy friends. These men want the best for me and care for my well-being.

Then there’s my dad’s friends, the ones he grew up with or the ones he goes hunting with.  Some may be a little rough around the edges, but they have been good, loyal friends to my dad.  They care about our family, and I know any one of them would be there should we ever need their help.

I also have hunting buddies, men I volunteer with, men I learn with, men who advise me on leadership and business, men I work with – all of these men have good hearts, a good work ethic, a good sense of humor; they are kind, generous, smart, and caring gentlemen.

My bar is not set on community involvement, on social status, or whatever other superficial quality you want to try and call me out on.  Yeah, these things may play a role in my dream guy, but I also know that what I want and what I may get can be totally different people.  There are very few men who pique my interest enough to even want to give my time to. Don’t shut down my hopes that there’s at least one good one still out there.

Realistically, my bar is set based on the men I am surrounded by.  It is set by their character, their charisma, their ethics, their morals, their values, and their chivalrous behavior.  Telling me that my bar is set too high is discounting the quality of men that I am so. damn. lucky. to have in my life. 

And because a lot of times it is these very men that are teasing me that my bar is set too high:

Don’t sell yourself so short!  Be proud of who you are, because I sure am. Until the time is right, God gave me the strength to endure this journey alone. I’m okay with that. I would much rather fly solo than settle for someone who does not measure up to the standard you have proven me worthy. Each of you have shown me qualities of a good man, and I am so grateful to call you friends, mentors, and family. 💕